73M29: [identification of item], Robert Simms Strader papers, 1864-1955, University of Kentucky Special Collections.

Repository

University of Kentucky

Collection Overview

Biography / History

Robert Simms Strader was born in Boone County, Kentucky, on the stock farm owned by his father, Robert Stuart Strader. In 1875, the elder Strader sold the farm and moved to Lexington, Kentucky, where he operated a stable and the Lexington trotting track. At seventeen years of age, the younger Strader began an apprenticeship in the horse business and eventually became a renown horse breeder, trainer, and agent. In 1909, Strader bought Forkland Farm near Lexington and continued to produce many well-known harness racers. He is the father of international socialite and fashion icon, Countess Mona Strader Bismarck.

Scope and Content

The Robert Simms Strader papers consist of correspondence, records, memorabilia, and a scrapbook relating to the breeding, selling, racing, and training of horses. The correspondence concerns the operation of Strader's horse farm, Forkland Farm, and his role as breeder and trainer. The collection also includes a Stallion Service Records book and various printed materials, such as race track programs, horse clubs and associations pamphlets, and postcards. A scrapbook, compiled by Strader, contains clippings about horse racing, pedigree, breeding, and health as well as death notices for celebrated horses.

Restrictions on Access and Use

Conditions Governing Access

Conditions Governing Access note
Collection is open to researchers by appointment.

Use Restrictions

The physical rights to the materials in this collection are held by the University of Kentucky Special Collections.

Contents of the Collection

Correspondence, 1891-1948

The Correspondence series contains business letters about horse breeding, selling, and training.

, 1914 January-May

, 1914 June-December

, 1923, 1929-1930

, 1931

, 1932-1933, 1947-1948

General, 1850-1955

The General series contains a Stallion Service Record book, notes by Strader, and newspapers about horse racing. The folder labeled Biographical information includes an account of Strader's life; newspaper clippings about major events; such as his daughter's death; and tax returns.

Scrapbook, 1864-1874

Items from scrapbook, 1871-1876, 1893

Researchers are required to have an SCRC Researcher Account in order to request or order digital copies of materials. Research Account set-up and use instructions can be found at: http://libguides.uky.edu/SCRCaccount

If you are visiting the Breckinridge Research Room, please request materials at least 48 business hours in advance of your arrival.

Researchers are required to have an SCRC Researcher Account in order to request or order digital copies of materials. Research Account set-up and use instructions can be found at: http://libguides.uky.edu/SCRCaccount

If you are visiting the Breckinridge Research Room, please request materials at least 48 business hours in advance of your arrival.